Gerald ‘Michael’ Frank
April 19, 2024
It is with heavy hearts, our family shares the peaceful passing of Michael Frank on Friday, April 19, 2024 at Victoria Hospital, London, in his 74th year. He was born December 30th, 1950 in St. Thomas, Ontario.
Beloved son of Shirley and the late Gerry Frank (1999) of London. Dear brother of William (Lee Anne Doyle) of Kingsville, Janet Mehnert of Cambridge and Lori Uttley (Barry) of London. Adored uncle of nieces Amanda Burt and Laura Algar; and nephews Christopher, Michael and Phillip Uttley. Lovingly remembered nephew of Fay Dunlop and Dr. Luanne Frank. Predeceased by many wonderful aunts and uncles. Lifelong happy gatherings and memories with the Frank, Hessenauer and Baker extended families.
As a Western University graduate, Michael had a 31-year career in Correctional Services in St. Thomas, London, retiring at the Bluewater Youth Centre in Goderich. Michael transitioned to a school bus driver in Huron County until 2020. In his home on Sunset Beach, Lake Huron, Michael enjoyed hosting many family and friends over the years with his talented skills in the kitchen. He became a bird, hummingbird and butterfly observer, enjoying the migration each year with his backyard feeders. As a very young boy, Michael had a gift of music at the piano, completing his grade eight piano with the Royal Conservatory of Music and bringing so much joy at many family events. In his later life, following any sports on TV was his favourite pastime. From his football days in high school, cheering on his beloved Mustangs to the Yates or Vanier Cups, to baseball days as a young adult and eventually coaching youth teams, Michael passionately followed his Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Lions and Tigers.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Leeper and the surgical team, Dr. Prager, Dr. Nikouline and Critical Care Trauma Centre (ICU) team at LHSC – Victoria Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion; and Dr. Tamra Steinmann and her Emergency team at the Alexandra and Marine General Hospital in Goderich also for their wonderful care. Many thanks to Michael’s close friends and neighbours who assisted him in his final months.
A private committal service has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held in late spring.
The family welcomes donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada or LHSF – Cancer Program in Michael’s memory.
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Just read this to-day. The first time I met Mike I had the back of my right hand resting on his butt. At Central Elgin Collegiate in St. Thomas Mike was the center on the Titan football team and I was the quarterback in grade 11. We became fast friends and saw a lot of each other through University and for years after that , until Mike moved up North. Mike was a Groomsman at our wedding 51 years ago. He was one of the nicest people you could ever meet ......a true friend and gentleman in every sense of the word. RIP Brian and Diane
Very saddened to hear of the passing of Michael. My thoughts and prayers are with the Family
So sorry to hear Michael's passing .Our sympathy to the Frank family
A donation has been made to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.
Deepest condolences to Michael's family. He was simply the best friend a person could have. His humour and laughter will never be forgotten. We will miss trading baseball stories and hearing about his students on the bus. Whenever we watch the Tigers we will remember you Michael. Rest gently as you were in life.
Deepest condolences to Aunt Shirley and cousin families. Micheal always had a great smile and kind heart and gentle way. He will be missed by all.
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I remember Mike well from high school at Central Elgin and indeed for some years afterword. He was a classic nice guy, a real gentleman who laughed easily.
~ Ken Clark